Uba Sani highlights 4,050 skills graduates as Kaduna begins NASENI training centre

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has said 4,050 youths graduated from the state’s vocational training institute in August as his administration pushes skills development to expand employment and strengthen the economy.

Sani spoke on Monday at the groundbreaking ceremony of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) Skill Development Centre in Rigachikun, Kaduna State.

He said the new centre would complement existing vocational institutions by equipping young people with practical skills needed by employers and businesses.

The governor said the state’s Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development had trained graduates in 14 trades, including electrical installation, aluminium fabrication, solar installation, mechatronics, computer hardware repairs and maintenance, catering and hospitality, and fashion design.

The graduates were trained at the institute’s campuses in Rigachikun, Soba and Samaru Kataf.

According to Sani, the institute has secured accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education, while its instructors have received training as Quality Assurance Assessors and Internal Quality Assurance Managers.

He said the measures would strengthen the credibility of assessments and certifications and improve employers’ confidence in graduates’ skills.

“Government has a responsibility to create conditions in which these qualities can flourish through relevant training, recognised qualifications and fair access to productive opportunities,” the governor said.

He described the NASENI centre as an investment in human capital that could improve livelihoods, strengthen productivity and prepare young people for the demands of a changing economy.

Sani, however, said the centre’s success would depend on how effectively its programmes respond to industry needs and provide clear pathways to employment and enterprise.

He also called for inclusive access to training, particularly for women, persons with disabilities and young people in underserved communities.

The governor said Kaduna State had provided the project site and remained committed to facilitating its completion.

He urged NASENI, the project team and contractors to meet agreed construction standards and timelines, stressing that timely delivery must be matched with adequate preparation for the centre’s operations.

Sani said the ultimate measure of the institution’s success would be the quality of its training and the achievements of its graduates.